Finding an EMDR Therapist

Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) is a popular approach to treating individuals with mental health issues. Many participants report that EMDR helps reduce the level of disturbance associated with traumatic memories, however, some people report feeling worse after participating in EMDR therapy. The level of experience, personality, and approach of the therapist can impact the results of EMDR therapy, making it important to choose a therapist who fits your needs. Although it’s valuable to have options, it can also be overwhelming to find the right therapist. Below are some questions you can ask a potential EMDR therapist to determine if they are the right fit for you.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing an EMDR Therapist

The EMDR model is expanded into different variations and approaches. Each therapist may implement a unique style of EMDR therapy based on their training. EMDR therapists may also have a clinical specialty like addictions, postpartum depression, OCD etc. Below are some questions you can ask an EMDR therapist to determine if they are the right fit for your mental health needs.

How long have you been practicing EMDR therapy?

This question will help you learn about the therapist’s experience and training level with EMDR therapy.

How do you determine if a patient is an appropriate candidate for EMDR therapy? 

This question is important because some people are not an appropriate fit for EMDR or are not ready for EMDR therapy. EMDR can have adverse effects if it is administered too soon or if a person doesn’t have appropriate coping skills and resources. As a patient you want to ensure that your therapist is trained in identifying when EMDR is and isn’t an appropriate fit for treatment.

How do you administer EMDR with a patient who dissociates or has memory blocks?

Dissociation and/or memory blocks can cause complications with EMDR. An EMDR therapist should have experience assessing for and working with a patient who has dissociative tendencies.

Do you have experience working with patients with complex trauma?

Complex trauma (CPTSD) can present differently than PTSD.  If you think you have been exposed to multiple traumatic events, you want to ensure your EMDR therapist is experienced in understanding and working with CPTSD.

Do you specialize in treating any specific population or issue?

You want to find a therapist who specializes in what you need help with. This ensures the therapist is more familiar with your symptoms and knows the most effective ways to help you.

Getting Started with an EMDR Therapist

I offer EMDR therapy online in Tennessee and Georgia.  I am trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR (S.A.F.E. EMDR) which is an EMDR modality specific for treating complex trauma. Contact me today to get started with EMDR Therapy.